Our History

History of Judo

Judo is a discipline with its roots in the Japanese martial arts (Budo). Professor Jigaro Kano created it around 1870 in Japan. He extracted relatively safe techniques (throws, holds, arm-locks, chokes and strangles) from the more dangerous art of Jujitsu, taught break-falling, and formed them into a comprehensive sport which he called Judo ("the gentle way").

Judo has a deep and lasting beneficial effect on the physique and psychology of children. It channels aggression and, because of the close-contact nature of the sport, teaches respect for one's fellow participants. The benefits of Judo training may be defined as "The Seven S's of Judo": Skill, Strength, Suppleness, Speed, Stamina, Self-Confidence and Self-Discipline.

More information regarding the history of Judo can be found at judoinfo.com.

History of Kobushi Judo Club

Kobushi Judo Club was established by Andrew Coles and Colin and Paul Buxton in 1976 as a non-profit-making local family and community-based club. When Kobushi Judo Club was founded Sensei Alf Hopkins (6th Dan) agreed to take on the position of Club President. The club during its time has moved around but has always remained in the Keynsham and Kingswood vicinity. We currently meet in Mangotsfield School.

We are affiliated to the British Judo Council (BJC) and the Avon Area. This allows our club members to enter club, area and national competitions, gradings and events, and ensure that grades are of a nationally recognised standard. We have been responsible for providing instruction in judo at all levels, and pride ourselves on being a friendly local club that is open to everyone.

We always strive to provide a high standard of instruction together with the traditional values of etiquette and philosophy, where a student can achieve a competent standard of competition fighting, or just personal enjoyment for fun, fitness and wellbeing. In return, to enable our members to achieve these high standards we ask that members attend and train regularly.

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A friendly Judo club based in Begbrook Primary Academy. We meet every Wednesday and Friday evening ( check the club calendar for times for exceptions). Give one of our instructors a ring or email for more details. Find our contact details on the menu above.